The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is one of the largest museums of modern and contemporary art in the United States and a thriving cultural center for the Bay Area. We cannot imagine life without art; it inspires and connects us every day. Now more than ever, these connections matter and are aligned with our
values.
Inclusive: We strive to be a museum of many voices in dialogue.
Passionate: We believe working with art is more than a job or trusteeship - it's a way of life.
Brave: We are committed to approaching our work with courage and a sense of adventure, always ready to explore new perspectives.
Empathic: We aim to act like a person, not an institution.
SFMOMA is a place for the infinitely curious to explore, support, and experience the art of our time. We believe that modern and contemporary art can influence the way we think, view the world, and embrace the many voices and perspectives around us. We aspire to foster an environment that elicits joy, nurtures a sense of belonging and purpose—where difference is seen as a strength, and every one is appreciated for their whole self.
Schedule: Full Time, 35 hours/week, Temporary (6 months), fully onsite
Under supervision of the Gallery Infrastructure & Fabrication Manager, and exhibiting safe fabrication practices, as well as institutional standards, the Museum Preparator I, Fabrication Shop is responsible for constructing and finishing of casework and display methods pertaining to SFMOMA’s Collection and Exhibitions Programs.
The position works collaboratively with other museum departments in the construction of exhibitions design pertaining to SFMOMA’s Program.
Position success after 30 days is defined by a familiarity with the fabrication shop facility and integration with the broader fabrication team. At one quarter, position success is defined by steady contribution to project goals and general organization of daily work. At one year, position success is defined by full understanding of institutional standards, significant contributions to project goals, maintenance & improvement planning and leading tool trainings.
Responsibilities & Duties
- Execute fabrication requests related to the installation and display of exhibitions and works of art.
- Paint and/or construct casework, pedestals, displays, fixtures, mounts, and other finished structures related to the installation and display of exhibitions and works of art.
- Assist in maintenance of fabrication shop according to maintenance schedule at all SFMOMA fabrication facilities.
- Foster a team environment and actively contribute within the team framework of the department. Follow proper procedures and protocols with regard to upkeep of the shop.
- Demonstrate best practice standards in regard to fabrication skills and finishing techniques.
- Safely and securely transport materials and casework/displays throughout the museum and ensure that gallery and work areas are well maintained.
- Perform other related duties as required.
Qualifications & Skills
- Bachelor's degree or Trade Certification, or equivalent work experience. Knowledge of modern and contemporary art desirable. Art Museum experience strongly preferred.
- Minimum of one (1) year of related experience or equivalent combination of training and experience.
- Ability to read and interpret fabrication drawings, follow plans, and execute complex fabrication projects for a wide variety of applications.
- Ability to work in effective and efficient manner with regard to time and materials.
- Demonstrated concern for detail, accuracy, and efficiency in the execution of projects.
- Demonstrate safe wood and metal shop practices with all fabrication shop equipment including both stationary and portable power tools.
- Ability to guide others in the safe use of the fabrication shop and equipment.
- Knowledge of safety precautions and procedures related to the handling of solvents, adhesives and other fabrication related solutions.
- Ability to demonstrate and foster good stewardship in regard to the upkeep of the fabrication spaces.
- Ability to demonstrate and foster good stewardship in regard to the museum’s waste handling and recycling practices. Ability to work cooperatively with supervisors, museum staff, students, outside clients, vendors, volunteers, and the public.
- Strong communication skills.
Working Conditions
- Medium lifting, up to 50 pounds.
- Frequent exposure to a Construction/Jobsite environment, including wood dust, paint fumes, and other environmental hazards.
- Personal protective equipment is supplied when mandated.
Job posting open date: 4/23/26
All jobs posted will remain open for at least five business days.
We encourage both internal and external candidates to apply within the initial open posting period as the application close date may or may not be extended beyond that initial period. Applications will not be accepted after a posting has been closed.
Location: San Francisco, 151 3rd Street.
Benefits: PTO, Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts, Pet Insurance, Life and AD&D Coverage, Disability Insurance, Mental Health and Wellness Benefits, Discount Programs, Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits, 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan, SFMOMA Membership, and more
At SFMOMA, we do not believe that any applicant can, or should, meet every qualification listed in a job posting. We are committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds and professional paths who are inspired to join a mission-driven, community-oriented organization grounded in inclusivity, passion, bravery, and empathy. If this describes you, we encourage you to apply. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. SFMOMA is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. No person shall be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, age, genetic information, ancestry/national origin, marital status, disability, medical condition, HIV status, sexual orientation, veteran/military status, and any other category protected by federal of state law. You may request reasonable accommodation if you are unable to or are limited in your ability to access job postings or provide additional information asked in the job posting.You can request reasonable accommodation by contacting the People Team at talent@sfmoma.org.
